By smartcubs “The Last Leaf” is a touching story by O. Henry about friendship, hope, and sacrifice. The characters in the story—Sue, Johnsy, and Behrman—play significant roles that bring the story to life. Let’s take a closer look at each of these characters.
Sue
Sue is one of the main characters in “The Last Leaf.” She is an artist who shares an apartment with her friend Johnsy.
Caring and Supportive
- Sue is very caring towards Johnsy. When Johnsy falls ill with pneumonia, Sue looks after her with great dedication.
- She tries to cheer Johnsy up and keep her spirits high, even though she herself is worried.
Optimistic
- Sue remains hopeful even when things look bad. She tries to encourage Johnsy to believe that she will get better.
- Her positive attitude is a source of strength for Johnsy.
Hardworking
- Sue works hard to make a living as an artist. Despite the challenges, she continues to paint and take care of Johnsy.
- She balances her work and her caregiving duties, showing her determination and resilience.
Johnsy
Johnsy, whose full name is Joanna, is Sue’s friend and roommate. She also works as an artist.
Ill and Depressed
- Johnsy is very ill with pneumonia. Her illness makes her feel weak and hopeless.
- She becomes obsessed with the leaves falling from a vine outside their window, believing that when the last leaf falls, she will die.
Artistic
- Like Sue, Johnsy is an artist. This shared passion for art is what brings them together.
- Despite her illness, she has a creative soul.
Vulnerable
- Johnsy’s illness makes her feel vulnerable and scared. She relies heavily on Sue for support and comfort.
- Her thoughts about the falling leaves show how deeply her illness affects her mental state.
Behrman
Behrman is an elderly artist who lives in the same building as Sue and Johnsy. He plays a crucial role in the story.
Grumpy but Kind
- Behrman often appears grumpy and irritable, but he has a kind heart.
- He cares about Sue and Johnsy and wants to help them in any way he can.
Protective
- Behrman is protective of Sue and Johnsy. He worries about Johnsy’s health and wants to see her recover.
- His protective nature leads him to make a great sacrifice.
Artistic Vision
- Behrman has a dream of creating a masterpiece, but he has not been successful so far.
- Despite his struggles, he remains passionate about art.
Character Traits at a Glance
| Character | Key Traits | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Sue | Caring, Optimistic, Hardworking | Takes care of Johnsy, Encourages her, Balances work and caregiving |
| Johnsy | Ill, Artistic, Vulnerable | Suffers from pneumonia, Obsessed with falling leaves, Relies on Sue |
| Behrman | Grumpy, Kind, Protective | Worried about Johnsy, Sacrifices for her, Passionate about art |
Sue’s Key Actions
- Caring for Johnsy during her illness.
- Trying to uplift Johnsy’s spirits with her optimism.
- Balancing her work as an artist and caregiving duties.
Johnsy’s Key Actions
- Falling ill and feeling hopeless.
- Focusing on the leaves falling from the vine.
- Depending on Sue for emotional support.
Behrman’s Key Actions
- Showing concern for Johnsy’s health.
- Ultimately creating a masterpiece to give hope to Johnsy.
- Making a significant personal sacrifice for the sake of others.